Traveling by car

Driving remains the most common way to reach Charlotte Motor Speedway. The venue offers a combination of free and paid parking areas, along with shuttle buses operating from more distant lots directly to the main gates on race weekends.

Driving directions

• If you’re approaching from the south, take Exit 49 from Interstate 85 onto Bruton Smith Boulevard. Turn right at the end of the ramp and continue for about one mile. The Speedway is located where Bruton Smith Boulevard meets US 29.
• Coming from the north, use Exit 49 as well. Turn left onto Bruton Smith Boulevard and continue roughly one mile to the Speedway at US 29.
• Visitors heading specifically to zMAX Dragway or The Dirt Track should also use Exit 49 toward Bruton Smith Boulevard. After about 0.9 miles, both venues will appear on the left before reaching Concord Parkway South (Highway 29).

Typical driving distances

• From Charlotte, NC (20 miles / ~30 minutes): Take I-85 North to Exit 49 (Bruton Smith Blvd/Concord Mills Blvd) and follow Speedway signage.
• From Raleigh, NC (150 miles / ~2.5 hours): Take I-40 West to I-85 South toward Charlotte, then Exit 49 and follow posted signs.
• From Greensboro, NC (90 miles / ~1.5 hours): Follow I-85 South toward Charlotte, exit at 49, then follow Speedway directions.
• From Atlanta, GA (250 miles / ~4 hours): Take I-85 North toward Charlotte and exit at 49.

Parking information

Reserved parking
Spaces closest to the main entrances can be purchased in advance. This option provides the easiest access and the shortest walking distance.

General/unreserved parking
Large parking zones surround the Speedway. Many are free or inexpensive, but availability is typically first-come, first-served.

Accessible (ADA) parking
Designated accessible parking is located opposite Gate 7 for guests with reserved ADA seating. Additional unreserved ADA parking is available via Entrance T off Bruton Smith Boulevard, with shuttle support provided where needed.

Shuttle services
Free shuttle buses operate on race days from remote parking areas to key entrances, helping reduce walking distances.

General driving rules in North Carolina

• Vehicles drive on the right side of the road.
• Seat belts are required for all occupants.
• Speed limits usually range from 25–30 mph (40–48 km/h) in residential areas, 55–65 mph (89–105 km/h) on highways, and up to 70 mph (113 km/h) on interstates – always follow posted limits.
• Red-light violations are strictly enforced, often with camera monitoring.
• Handheld phone use while driving is restricted – hands-free use is recommended.